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Makers of luxury sport/utility vehicles have been swarming to the lucrative SUV market like trendy ants on a trayload of spilled brie and biscotti. Yet, the vehicle that virtually created the premium-SUV concept back in 1987 still leads the crowd in terms of sheer unadulterated pampering. And why not? At $66,625, the Range Rover 4.6 HSE carries the highest suggested retail of any regularly distributed SUV in the U.S. (Only the limited-edition Callaway edition of the HSE and limited-access Gelandewagen by Mercedes-Benz carry higher sticker prices.)

Perhaps the most impressive feature in the Range Rover’s arm-length list of standards is its wondrous electronically controlled air suspension, which automatically (or manually) raises and lowers the vehicle to accommodate different situations. It can be lowered for easy entry and exit, take a normal stance for everyday driving, or go up extra high for serious off-road use. More than a gimmick, this system is jungle proven.

Inside, the Range Rover treats passengers like British royalty (who, incidentally, have often been seen in their own Range Rovers). Both of its front seats are 10-way electrically adjustable, clad in Connolly leather, and heated. Plus, they’re integrated into a two-position memory system that saves settings for the seats, outside mirrors, and instrument panel illumination, all of which are linked into the keyless remote entry system so the vehicle recognizes the driver by his remote handset and adjusts the settings accordingly. The Range Rover’s climate control system is the most sophisticated in the class and includes automatic dual-zone temperature settings, micro-pollen filtration system, ice warning, electrically heated windshield, and a one-touch defrost program. This is accompanied by a potent 300-watt Alpine audio system with 12 speakers, six-disc CD changer, and weather-band radio–and perhaps the most advanced security system in the field.

Other notable accoutrements? Naturally, there’s an auto-dimming rearview mirror, HomeLink remote transmitter, and integrated computer message center. In addition, how about a key-activated “all close” feature that closes windows and the sunroof just by turning and holding the key in the driver-side door lock? Or power-heated outside mirrors that automatically dip when the vehicle goes into reverse so you can see the curb?

The Range Rover’s 4.6-liter/222-horsepower OHV aluminum V-8 is old (GM-designed) technology that receives constant refinements, and for 1999 boasts 15 percent more torque. It’s coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission with adaptive logic and sport mode, and in low range the vehicle can handle a hefty 7700-pound tow payload. Meanwhile, other additions for 1999 include a four-wheel electronic traction control system (to supplement the existing full-time 4WD system with viscous-coupled center differential), side airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. The bottom line? If you can handle the price of entry, the Range Rover 4.6 HSE rewards you with an upper-crust level of luxury you just won’t find in, how shall we say, “commoner” vehicles.